60th Army (Soviet Union)
The 60th Army was a field army of the Soviet Union's Red Army during World War II. It was formed in November 1941 as part of the Reserve of the Supreme High Command (Stavka Reserve).
Formation and Early Operations:
The 60th Army was initially formed in the Volga Military District. Its initial mission was to defend against a potential German advance towards the Volga River and vital industrial centers. It initially comprised rifle divisions, cavalry divisions, and artillery units.
Wartime Service:
The 60th Army participated in numerous major operations on the Eastern Front, including:
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Voronezh-Kastornoye Operation (January-February 1943): The army played a key role in this offensive, contributing to the liberation of Voronezh and the defeat of German forces in the area.
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Kursk (July-August 1943): The 60th Army was deployed on the Voronezh Front during the Battle of Kursk, helping to repel the German offensive. It subsequently participated in the counteroffensive, pushing westward.
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Kiev Offensive (November 1943): The army participated in the recapture of Kiev, a strategically important victory for the Red Army.
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Zhitomir-Berdichev Offensive (December 1943 - January 1944): The 60th Army continued its advance through Ukraine.
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Lvov-Sandomierz Offensive (July-August 1944): This operation saw the 60th Army advance into Poland and establish bridgeheads across the Vistula River.
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Vistula-Oder Offensive (January-February 1945): The army played a vital role in liberating much of Poland and advancing deep into Germany.
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Upper Silesian Offensive (March 1945): Continuing its advance through Silesia.
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Prague Offensive (May 1945): The 60th Army participated in the final offensive of the war in Europe, helping to liberate Prague.
Post-War:
After the end of World War II, the 60th Army was disbanded. Its units were reassigned or demobilized.
Commanders:
The 60th Army had several commanders throughout the war, including:
- General (later Marshal) Kirill Moskalenko
- General Pavel Kurochkin
Significance:
The 60th Army played a significant role in the Red Army's victories on the Eastern Front. It participated in numerous major offensives and contributed to the liberation of territory from German occupation. Its contributions, alongside those of other Soviet armies, were crucial to the ultimate defeat of Nazi Germany.